Lisburn man set to go bald for charity

Robert Best is set to shave off his hair and beard for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Published:11:06Sunday 09 August 2015

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A Lisburn man is set to shave off his long hair and beard as part of Macmillan Cancer Support’s Brave the Shave campaign.

Robert Best hasn’t had ahaircut in three years but will brave the razor on August 13 to raise money for Macmillan.

He said: “Having long hair has always been something to hide behind. Something that allows me to feel comfortable with myself and who I am.

“Cancer is something that has affected me.

“My step-dad fought and beat it thankfully but it has drastically altered not only his life but those of us that who see and interact with him daily.”

Robert said he is terrified of cutting his hair and he can’t remember the last time he didn’t have a beard but explained the idea behind it.

He said: “I have always felt like someone who has ever had to deal with cancer ends up with the feeling that they are no longer comfortable in themselves.

“That they are not who they think of themselves anymore. Something about them is not right.”

He continued: “Shaving my head scares me. The idea is really uncomfortable. I know that doing it will translate into me not being comfortable with myself.

“While it is not the same as what they go through it is the closest thing I can do to put myself in the same kind of position.”

Robert will not be alone in going fresh faced and bald headed as three or four of his friends from across the United Kingdom are particiapting as well. He said: “there are three or four of us. We are all doing it on the same day but staggering the times. My girlfriend has never known me any other way so let’s just hope she likes it.”

Robert will be getting the big shave at the Barber Shop in Lisburn and sign-up sheets are available from there for anyone wishing to donate.

Alternatively, anyone who would like to make a donation can visit: www.bravetheshave.org.uk/shavers/robert-t-best/.